Mount St. Mary senior Jackson Braun has embraced the demands of being a three-sport varsity athlete while preparing for what he hopes will be a historic final football season.
Braun, a 6-foot-7 tight end, has become a key piece of a program aiming to reach new heights. He said the team’s shared focus has helped build confidence heading into his senior year.
“I love that my team is focused on the same goal this year of having the best season in school history,” Braun said. “We hope to make a run at the state title.”
For Braun, success on the field is rooted in discipline and accountability, values instilled by his family. He credits his father as his biggest influence.
“My dad is my biggest inspiration because I have looked up to him all my life,” Braun said. “He knows my strengths and acknowledges my weaknesses while also helping me develop a plan to consistently improve.”
That support system has helped Braun balance a demanding schedule that includes football, basketball and tennis, along with academics. His interest in science keeps him engaged in the classroom, while theology teacher Mrs. D has left a lasting impression.
“She keeps it real with us and pushes us to be the best version of ourselves,” he said.
On the field, Braun faces unique challenges due to his size. While his height is an advantage, he said playing tight end requires constant adjustment.
“The most difficult thing about being a tight end for me is keeping my 6-foot-7 frame low on blocks,” Braun said. “There are parts of the game where I need to be the big man I am and other parts where I need to be small and explosive.”
Despite the challenges, Braun said the relationships he has built make the effort worthwhile.
“My teammates are my brothers and we have each other’s backs on the field and in the classroom,” he said.
One of his favorite memories came during a milestone victory against Perry last season, when the team started 6-0 for the first time in school history.
Looking ahead, Braun said athletics have prepared him for life beyond high school.
“Athletics have taught me that hard work pays off,” he said. “My dedication to the daily grind has not gone unnoticed.”
As a third-generation student at Mount St. Mary, Braun said he feels a responsibility to represent his family and school well, a motivation that continues to drive him in his final year.
